Your Investment, Your Choice
Donors
Working with The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg and Rockingham, you can maximize your financial strategy while creating positive change in the community.
Your Investment, Your Choice
$9.3+ Million
In Grants In 2025
1,200+
Donors
27
Scholarship Funds
Donor Resources
Why Work With Us
Giving Options
Tax Credits
Giving Back Guide
Donor FAQs
Why become a donor?
People give for all kinds of reasons: because they want to help others, pay forward a kindness, continue a family legacy, pass on values of generosity to family members, or commemorate the life of a loved one. We can listen to why and how you want to give and help you create a plan to meet those goals. And because we’re a 501(c)(3), your donation is tax deductible.
I want to give but I’m not sure of which organizations to support. Can you help?
Yes, please contact us. We’ll listen to your interests and help to connect you with area organizations that match your philanthropic goals. You may want to look at our annual Giving Back Guide, too.
How do I start a fund?
The steps are simple. Explore what type of fund works best for you with one of our staff. Name your fund. Review our agreements and sign a fund agreement. Decide on a succession plan and then transfer the assets. To learn more, click here.
Can I support individuals?
No. Your grant from your fund cannot benefit an individual.
Can I choose any charity to receive a grant from my charitable fund managed by TCF?
Donors can support any 501(c)(3) that is good standing with the IRS. If you’re unsure about a nonprofit’s status or have a question about supporting charities through a grant from your fund, please contact us.
Does my contribution have to be endowed?
No. Endowments are permanent funds that yield an annual gift in perpetuity. You may choose a fund that is not endowed.
Can my investment manager continue to invest my charitable fund?
Yes. When you establish a fund, you can choose to have your fund invested by us or you may recommend that your own investment advisor manage the fund.
What are the financial benefits and tax advantages of giving through TCF?
There are many tax advantages to working with a community foundation on a charitable donation or more involved plan. You can easily contribute a range of assets. Consider reaching out to us when you are selling a business, creating your estate plan, or are considering starting a fund.
Can I be anonymous when making donations and/or grants?
Yes. We can work with you on a plan for your gifts if you choose to remain anonymous. This is one way that funds at community foundations differ from a private foundation. We operate under different rules, which allow our donors to make anonymous gifts.
Why should I start a fund?
Setting up a charitable fund can be a powerful and rewarding philanthropic endeavor, as well as a way to protect and serve charitable interests. Individuals, a family, a business, a nonprofit organization or a private foundation can open a fund.
Can anyone give to a new or existing fund?
Yes. Funds may accept contributions from individuals, trusts, estates, and others. Some types of funds can accept contributions from other donor-advised funds and private foundation, though these are not considered tax deductible to the donor.
Am I required to donate a certain amount from my fund each year?
There is no requirement to donate to your fund each year. The federal gift tax exemption allows you to give up to $12,000 per person per year or $24,000 for married couples.
What happens to my fund after my lifetime?
When you start your fund, you’ll need to think about a succession plan. We can help you think through options, depending on the type of fund and your wishes. Your fund can continue carrying on your charitable legacy after your death.
What is TCFHR’s tax status?
The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg & Rockingham County is a nonstock Virginia corporation organized and operated exclusively for nonprofit, religious, charitable and educational purposes. The IRS recognizes TCFHR as a public charity exempt from federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Tax Code. Charitable donations to The Community Foundation of Harrisonburg & Rockingham County are tax-exempt. Our EIN is 54-1920746. Click here to download a copy of our IRS Determination Letter.
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